Arshad Khan, popularly known as Arshad Chaiwala, is now facing a legal battle after his identity card and passport were blocked. The case was heard by Justice Jawad Hassan at the Rawalpindi High Court. Arshad gained nationwide fame in 2016 after a photograph of him working at a tea stall went viral due to his striking blue eyes. Today, he’s in court fighting for something as basic as his right to identity.
The Petition Filed by Arshad Khan
Arshad Khan filed a petition claiming that his CNIC and passport were blocked without any valid reason. His lawyer argued that NADRA’s demand for proof of residence before 1978 is not only unreasonable but impossible to fulfill for someone born after that time. The petition stressed that Arshad has lived and worked in Pakistan for years and has always identified as a Pakistani citizen. The sudden cancellation of his documents has left him in a state of legal and emotional distress.
Government’s Response to the Court
Officials from NADRA and the Passport Office submitted a report in court, stating that the decision to block Arshad Khan’s documents was based on reports from credible intelligence agencies. According to the report, Arshad Khan is considered an Afghan national. The government is currently implementing a policy of sending undocumented Afghans back to their country, and Arshad’s case allegedly falls under this category. The government claims that the action was taken according to national policy guidelines.
Court Proceedings and Next Hearing
During the hearing, Arshad Khan’s legal representative requested more time to prepare a response to the claims made by NADRA and the Passport Office. The court accepted this request and scheduled the next hearing for April 22. This gives Arshad Khan’s legal team time to gather and submit documentation that supports his Pakistani nationality.
A Public Figure in the Spotlight
Arshad Khan is not a regular citizen. His rise to fame came after a candid photo of him serving tea caught the attention of millions on social media. Since then, he has modeled for several brands, opened his own café in Islamabad, and become a public personality. His fans see him as an example of how humble beginnings can turn into something great. Now, many are shocked to see him facing such a difficult legal and personal struggle.
Public Reaction and Support
There has been a wave of support for Arshad Khan on social media. Many people are questioning how someone who has publicly contributed to Pakistan’s economy and image is being treated in this way. The case has raised broader concerns about how identity verification is handled, especially for individuals who have been living in the country for decades.
Legal and Human Rights Questions
Legal experts believe that this case highlights flaws in the current documentation and verification system. The expectation to produce decades-old records is not practical and could affect thousands of long-time residents. Human rights advocates argue that blocking someone’s ID without due process is a violation of their basic rights and call for a more transparent and fair approach.
What Lies Ahead for Arshad Chaiwala
As the next hearing approaches, Arshad Khan’s future remains uncertain. Without a valid ID or passport, his business and travel are on hold. His legal team will now have to present strong evidence in court to prove his citizenship and restore his documents. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for many others in similar situations.
The nation is watching closely to see whether Arshad Chaiwala, once a symbol of hope and success, will be officially recognized as a Pakistani citizen—or forced to leave the country he calls home.
